In‑House Internal Audit Leader — Risk & Assurance

Salt; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 250,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Salt is seeking a seasoned Head of Internal Audit to spearhead the transition from an outsourced model to a fully in-house function in the UAE. You will design the audit charter, develop multi-year plans, and ensure independence while coordinating with FSRA, the Board, and the External Auditor.

You will oversee audits across ICAAP/ILAAP/IRAP, IFRS 9, AML/CFT, and IT/governance, including Shari’ah review, ensuring rigorous risk management and controls.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading internal audit in banking or financial services.
• Strong knowledge of FSRA requirements and IIA standards.
• Experience with IFRS 9 ECL and IFRS reporting processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the transition from outsourced to in-house Internal Audit with a clear handover plan.
• Develop and approve a risk-based, multi-year audit plan for Board approval.
• Maintain FSRA engagement and co-ordinate with External Auditor to ensure coverage.
• Provide assurance over capital, liquidity, IRAP, and operational risk frameworks.
• Oversee AML/CFT, CDD, and regulatory compliance audits.
• Lead Shari’ah review in line with IFRS and AAOIFI standards, coordinating with Shari’ah board.
• Govern technology risks including cyber security, data governance, and AI/ML controls.
• Review outsourcing agreements and ensure alignment with regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Internal Audit

Risk management

Regulatory liaison

FSRA standards

IIA standards

Shari’ah review

IAM documentation

Outsourcing management

Data governance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance/Accounting/Audit

Tools

Audit software (ACL/IDEA)

ERP systems

Job description

Salt is seeking a seasoned Head of Internal Audit to spearhead the transition from an outsourced model to a fully in-house function in the UAE. You will design the audit charter, develop multi-year plans, and ensure independence while coordinating with FSRA, the Board, and the External Auditor.

You will oversee audits across ICAAP/ILAAP/IRAP, IFRS 9, AML/CFT, and IT/governance, including Shari’ah review, ensuring rigorous risk management and controls.